The Evolution Of Dress Tightness, From Hoop Skirts To Latex Bodycon — PHOTOS

Dresses are the epitome of traditional feminine style. They're classic, easy to wear, and have been around for a really long time. Today, you're able to choose between pretty much any style of dress you want, but it wasn't always that way. Like most other styles of clothing, they have changed a lot throughout the ages, and the tightness of dresses has evolved considerably over time.

Each decade has gone through distinct style changes that have influenced the way we dress today. From the full midi-length skirt of the '50s to the super short bodycon styles of the early '00s, the possibilities are limitless. And thanks to vintage fashion coming back in style, you really can opt for basically any look you want (OK, maybe I'd skip the hoop skirt on your way to the office). Although you may assume that dresses have gotten progressively tighter over time, dress tightness has actually fluctuated with each decade — think of the silky dresses of the '30s compared to the boxy silhouettes of the '60s.

If you're curious to see how dress trends have changed over the last couple years in regards to fit, check out the following list. You may learn a thing or two about where your favorite style originated!

1. 1700s

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Marie Antoinette donned super tight corset tops paired with absurdly large skirts. The pannier or side hoops in the skirt allowed for crazy width, according to The History of Costume, while the front and back were pretty much flat.

12. 1980s

In the '80s women embraced a powerful look by way of shoulder pads and straight skirts.

13. 1990s

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One of the most popular looks of this decade the slip dress. These super silky dresses tended to be slim fitting but not skin tight.

14. 2000s

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Women were definitely into showing off their curves in the 2000s. This super short Christina Aguilera number proves it.

15. 2010s

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Finally, this Kim Kardashian dress couldn't get much tighter. However, it's definitely not the only popular dress style today. Some dresses I own could be described as "sack," while others are basically akin to a second skin. Needless to say, almost all the styles of the past are popular styles right now, which means you don't need to choose between boxy or body con.